Can a water heater element be replaced without draining the tank?

• <div><p>No, you’ll need to drain the tank before changing a water heater element, as the water heater element sticks through the side of the tank and uses a gasket to prevent water from pouring out. However, you don’t always need to drain it completely. If you’re only replacing the upper heating element, you can drain the tank until the water line is below the element. If you’re replacing the lower element, you’ll need to drain the whole thing. </p></div>

What is the difference between a boiler and a water heater, and can they be used together?

• <div><p>No, boilers and water heaters are not interchangeable because they serve different primary functions. Boilers are used for central heating systems, providing hot water or steam to heat your home. In contrast, a water heater's purpose is to supply hot water for daily household use, such as for faucets and showers. A water heater alone cannot supply the warm water or steam needed for a central heating system.</p><p>While they are not interchangeable, it is common to have both a boiler and a water heater. In fact, a conventional boiler often works best when a water heater system is already in place. The two systems can be combined to provide both heating and hot water, either by pairing a boiler with an indirect water heater or by installing a premade combination boiler-water heater unit. For home heating, some homeowners may also opt for a furnace instead of a boiler.</p></div>

Best water heater pros near Manly, IA

Q: Can a water heater element be replaced without draining the tank?

• <div><p>No, you&rsquo;ll need to drain the tank before changing a water heater element, as the water heater element sticks through the side of the tank and uses a gasket to prevent water from pouring out. However, you don&rsquo;t always need to drain it completely. If you&rsquo;re only replacing the upper heating element, you can drain the tank until the water line is below the element. If you&rsquo;re replacing the lower element, you&rsquo;ll need to drain the whole thing. </p></div>

Q: What adds more value: a heat pump or gas water heater?

• <div><p>While heat pump water heaters are more expensive than gas-powered water heaters, the ROI is higher for heat pump units. Not only are heat pump water heaters more energy efficient, meaning immediate savings on your energy bill, but they also last longer than traditional gas versions, meaning you won't have to buy them as often.</p></div>

Q: How long do heat pump water heaters last?

• <div><p>Traditional gas or electric water heaters last an average of six to 11 years. However, with excellent maintenance, they can last up to 15 years. Heat pump water heaters, on the other hand, last an average of between 12 and 15 years and potentially longer with proper maintenance. In both cases, your home's water quality can be a determining factor regarding the lifespan of your water heater.</p></div>

Q: Do you have to replace expansion tanks at the same time as your hot water heater?

• <div><p>You don&rsquo;t have to replace expansion tanks at the same time as your hot water heater. You may be able to go six to 12 years or more before needing to replace your expansion tank. At <b>$150 to $450</b>, hot water heater expansion tanks are usually much more affordable than the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-water-heater-installation-cost.htm">cost of hot water tanks</a> themselves, which average about $1,190.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your water heater service project in Manly, IA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Manly, IA

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Manly, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Heater Service companies in Manly, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

Last update on March 24, 2025

Reviewed in March 2025
Tyson did an excellent job—professional, efficient, and thorough. He arrived when he said he would and completed the work in short order. I couldn't be happier with the results! He worked on copper tubing installation on cinderblock, providing an elegant solution using Unistrut and proper...
Ursidae Mechanical LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2024
Our installer, Levi L., did a fantastic job on our new shower. It is beautiful. The bathroom and surrounding area was perfectly clean when he was done. He answered all of our questions and made sure we understood the paper work at the finish. Very friendly and polite. I would recommend him to...
Mad City Windows & Baths
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2022
Very thorough, methodical Power wash of house made a great difference in appearance of housr
American Power Washing, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2021
He tired selling me a 15k drainage unit with spending less then 5 minutes in my basement. The tech named Ryan tried telling me I had above 20% moisture in my dry wall up to 2 ft and higher in my basement, tired telling me I had mold and I needed to install a 15k drainage unit right away. I had a...
American Waterworks
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2014
Best service ever! Polite, on time, knowledgeable, honest and amazing customer service! You cannot go wrong if you hire George Parks with Clear and Pure Water. He was so helpful in every step of the process. He was the only one that listened to what we needed and wasn��t there to just sell us...
Clear and Pure Water
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2014
My stand pipe backed up last night, water all over my laundry room. Called Josh early this morning, here by 9:00 a.m. Accomplished job promptly and effectively. Clean worksite when done, respectful attitude, <br />
A-1 Drain & Sewer Cleaning
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2013
NGave estimate based on less than exact specifications from wife and I. Broke cement floor to install new sewer and drain lines.Replaced cement,installed all fixtures and plumbing for new 4 piece bath. Gave advice and explained state and local code requirements. He stayed within budget and fixed...
Bretts Drain Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2012
They did this while I was on vacation and left a signficant mess in the house. I called and the owner did not offer to come and clean it up. Two years after the work was done, a transformer failed. I called Linahon and they came to check it out. The transformer that was installed was way too...
LINAHON ELECTRIC INC
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2011
Very well. They were prompt in their service and willing to answer any questions that I had. Since there was no heat one night, they offered electrical heaters for my comfort. The boiler had a couple of problems when first installed, and Schroeder's crew was to our house quickly to make the...
Schroeder Plumbing & Heating Inc
Request a quote

Top-Rated Water heater pros in Manly - Updated Nov 2026

Ursidae Mechanical LLC

5.0(

)

Tankless Water Heater - RepairWater Heater - Repair or ServiceWater Heater - Repair or Service - For Business

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Tyson did an excellent job—professional, efficient, and thorough. He arrived when he said he would and completed the work in short order. I couldn't be happier with the results! He worked on copper tubing installation on cinderblock, providing an elegant solution using Unistrut and proper hardware. He also handled the water heater installation, assisted with installing a new toilet, and set up the stub-out for a new shower. Additionally, he helped extend 1-inch propane black pipe for in-building services. Highly recommend Tyson for quality workmanship and reliability!"

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Request Quote

American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"We pay yearly but we have this is included with our rental property. They are pretty good on most things. We had a hot water heater replaced and they did an excellent job on that. They are very quick on their response. They dont come out here. It is all done on the internet. I just like the idea that one time service charge is so much better than trying to hiring someone to come in. It is more about convenience. It pays for itself."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Request Quote

K & C Electric, Plumbing & HVAC, Inc.

5.0(

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallWater Heater - Install or Replace+1 more

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1967

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

K & C Electric, Plumbing & HVAC, Inc., take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumers needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Response time10 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Fischer Family Services LLC

5.0(

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

We have the experience and dedication to get the job done right! Specializing in Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling services; We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won't leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Call or click for your estimate today!

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Water Heaters FAQs, answered by experts

No, you’ll need to drain the tank before changing a water heater element, as the water heater element sticks through the side of the tank and uses a gasket to prevent water from pouring out. However, you don’t always need to drain it completely. If you’re only replacing the upper heating element, you can drain the tank until the water line is below the element. If you’re replacing the lower element, you’ll need to drain the whole thing.

While heat pump water heaters are more expensive than gas-powered water heaters, the ROI is higher for heat pump units. Not only are heat pump water heaters more energy efficient, meaning immediate savings on your energy bill, but they also last longer than traditional gas versions, meaning you won't have to buy them as often.

Traditional gas or electric water heaters last an average of six to 11 years. However, with excellent maintenance, they can last up to 15 years. Heat pump water heaters, on the other hand, last an average of between 12 and 15 years and potentially longer with proper maintenance. In both cases, your home's water quality can be a determining factor regarding the lifespan of your water heater.

No, boilers and water heaters are not interchangeable because they serve different primary functions. Boilers are used for central heating systems, providing hot water or steam to heat your home. In contrast, a water heater's purpose is to supply hot water for daily household use, such as for faucets and showers. A water heater alone cannot supply the warm water or steam needed for a central heating system.

While they are not interchangeable, it is common to have both a boiler and a water heater. In fact, a conventional boiler often works best when a water heater system is already in place. The two systems can be combined to provide both heating and hot water, either by pairing a boiler with an indirect water heater or by installing a premade combination boiler-water heater unit. For home heating, some homeowners may also opt for a furnace instead of a boiler.

You don’t have to replace expansion tanks at the same time as your hot water heater. You may be able to go six to 12 years or more before needing to replace your expansion tank. At $150 to $450, hot water heater expansion tanks are usually much more affordable than the cost of hot water tanks themselves, which average about $1,190.

The Manly, IA homeowners’ guide to water heater services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Heather Ayer
•
Oct 16, 2026Oct 16, 2026
How Much Does Water Heater Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]
Looking to replace or upgrade your water heater? Use this water heater replacement cost guide to see what the work will cost and what factors affect your total.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Oct 26, 2026Oct 26, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Heat Pump Water Heater? [2026 Data]
Learn all the factors that influence the cost to install a heat pump water heater at your home.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Oct 30, 2026Oct 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Flush a Water Heater? [2026 Data]
A water heater flush costs $160 on average but can vary based on the unit size, type, labor, location, and more. Keep reading to learn how much you could pay.
Dan Simms
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Water Heater Installation Pro
Done with cold showers and dish washing? Hire a water heater installation pro near you to get back to comfort and safety quickly.
Kyle Schurman
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who Can Install a Water Heater In Your Home?
Who can install a water heater for you? Look to hire a water heater installation pro or a licensed plumber for this job because of the challenges involved.
C.E. Larusso
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The average lifespan of water heaters is 6 to 15 years for conventional models and up to 20 for tankless ones, but it can be less if they are not properly maintained.